Opposition Spokesperson on Health, Dr Alfred Dawes, is leading the first post-hurricane medical mission to the hard-hit parishes of Hanover and Westmoreland on Saturday (November 1), bringing urgent assistance to hospitals, healthcare workers, and residents impacted by the storm.

The 31-member team comprises Dr Katia Maria Aguilera, head of the Cuban Medical Brigade, as well as three doctors, medical students and nurses, all of whom are volunteering their time and expertise.

The mission’s primary focus is to support the staff and patients at the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital and the Noel Holmes Hospital, providing health checks, wound care, and general medical assistance.

The team is also distributing critical supplies, including sterile gloves, disinfectant, repellents, feminine hygiene products, medication and bottled water.. If time permits, they will extend their efforts to reach communities that were previously cut off to render further aid.

“This mission is about action and compassion,” said Dawes. “Our healthcare workers and communities in the west have been under tremendous strain since Hurricane Melissa. Today we’re bringing not just supplies, but hope and solidarity to those who need it most.”

Dr Dawes emphasised the importance of collective effort in national recovery.

“We all have a role to play in helping each other and rebuilding our country. This mission is a reminder that when we come together across professions, communities and borders, we can make a real difference.”

The shadow minister thanked the volunteers and partners who made the initiative possible, noting that the team will continue to assess urgent healthcare needs in the affected areas and coordinate additional support in the coming days.